Air pollution: Hematologist reveals how polluted air drains blood health, raises anaemia risk

Health risks of air pollution: Every breath we take pulls in PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. These microscopic particles slip through the lungs and straight into the bloodstream (Image: Pexels)

Air pollution is known to hurt the lungs and make breathing harder. But it does more damage than you realise. Apart from coughing and watery eyes, doctors now say that dirty air can also affect the blood. It can change how your blood works and harms your health without you noticing.

Bad air quality is the silent killer that slowly but surely damages every organ of the human body, including the blood,” Dr Shubhprakash Sanyal, Director - Haematology, Hemato-oncology and BMT Physician, Fortis Hospital Mulund, Mumbai, tells Moneycontrol.

“While most of us link polluted air to asthma or heart trouble, few know that it can also raise the risk of anaemia — a condition caused by low haemoglobin or a shortage of healthy red blood cells.” warns Dr Sanyal. “Every breath we take pulls in PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. These microscopic particles slip through the lungs and straight into the bloodstream, disrupting the very cells meant to carry oxygen,” he adds.

Also read | Smog and pregnancy: Delhi docs warn against panic moves, advise 'smart protection' instead

Once inside, these pollutants spark inflammation and oxidative stress. Dr Sanyal explains that these toxins can damage red blood cells, interfere with haemoglobin production, and even weaken our ability to absorb vital nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid. “Slowly, silently, haemoglobin levels dip,” he says.

Many people don’t spot the signs until they feel constantly drained or breathless climbing even a flight of stairs. “Those breathing polluted air daily might be facing a slow reduction of their haemoglobin levels without realising it. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. Lower haemoglobin can cause severe fatigue, raise the risk of premature delivery, and lead to low birth weight in babies,” he adds.

Also read | Pollution in winter and COPD: Keep your lungs healthy and safe with these easy tips

How to keep blood healthy

Dr Sanyal shares the following tips to keep yourself healthy:

• Limit time outdoors when air quality dips, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
• Use an indoor air purifier to reduce pollution inside the home.
• Stay well hydrated, as water helps your body flush out toxins.
• Follow an iron- and vitamin-rich diet, including green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, eggs, and fortified cereals.
• Get regular health check-ups, especially if you experience persistent fatigue or breathlessness.

1. How does air pollution affect our lungs?

Air pollution can damage the lungs, making breathing difficult, leading to coughing and watery eyes.

2. Can air pollution affect our blood?

Yes, air pollution can alter blood function, causing inflammation and oxidative stress that harm red blood cells and haemoglobin production.

3. Does air pollution increase the risk of anaemia?

Air pollution can raise the risk of anaemia by reducing haemoglobin levels and interfering with the absorption of vital nutrients.

4. Who is most at risk from air pollution?

Everyone is at risk, but pregnant women are particularly vulnerable as low haemoglobin can lead to severe fatigue, premature delivery, and low birth weight in babies.

5. How can we protect our blood health from air pollution?

Limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor, use indoor air purifiers, stay hydrated, follow an iron- and vitamin-rich diet, and get regular health check-ups.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.